Syracuse, the fifth largest city in New York State, offers endless opportunities for history, architecture and outdoor buffs. Open seven days a week, be sure to check out the Erie Canal Museum, which houses the unique 1850 Syracuse Weighlock Building that once weighed canal cargo. Award -winning interactive displays showcase 200 years of fascinating Erie Canal history.
After lunch at Pastabilities —the name says it all, and you’ll be talking about their spicy hot tomato oil and fresh baked bread for weeks to come—take a walking tour of downtown. Stroll around Clinton Square, famous for its gothic architecture and multiple monuments. Admire the castle-like Syracuse Bank Building and meander around the brick walkways of Hanover Square. Syracuse was a major stop on the Underground Railroad; try to find the various markers around the city.
After checking into the Parkview Hotel, head over to the Armory Square Historic District, the city’s cultural hub. We recommend dinner at Lemon Grass Restaurant, which has been serving up ‘Pacific Rim Thai Food’ to happy customers for two decades. After dinner, shop for the hottest sneakers and other fashions at Ambition Upstate.
The following morning, get up and go for a walk or bike ride on the 4.8-mile Onondaga Creekwalk. Refuel with the legendary brunch at Mother’s Cupboard Fish Fry & Diner. If you have time, do check out the Everson Museum of Art, which is solely focused on American works. Then it’s time to leave the city limits. Just 10 minutes south of the city lies Clark Reservation State Park. Climb through the cliffs to look down at the glacial plunge basin lake. You’ll relax just long enough to reflect on your Syracuse getaway.
